The Cold War wasn’t just a battle of ideologies, but of secrets as well. This era of tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union was marked by espionage, secret operations, and a relentless arms race. In a world where every move could be watched, spies needed more than just a sharp mind, they relied on some of the most astounding spy inventions ever created. From hidden cameras to concealed weapons, these spy tools were designed to gather information and sabotage enemies. We hope you’re ready for a glimpse into the Cold War, because here are 17 spy gadgets used during the time.
1. Shoe Transmitter
This radio transmitter was concealed in the heel to monitor private conversations. We’d never assume to check someone’s shoe for a microphone.
2. The lipstick gun
This ingenious invention was used by female spies during the Cold War. It was designed to look exactly like women’s lipstick, so female spies could get a weapon into places secretly.
3. Disappearing Ink Pens
Though these pens are often associated with pranks, they were extremely useful when trying to hide messages from the enemy during the Cold War.
4. The umbrella gun
Much like the lipstick gun, this gadget was used to sneak a weapon into top-secret places.
5. The Pipe Radio
This vintage pipe was fitted with a micro radio that allowed agents to transmit conversations to other undercover agents. We’re curious if you could actually use it as a pipe.
6. The Hollow Silver Dollar
This simple yet effective device allowed spies to conceal messages or film, and nonchalantly pass it to their fellow agents.
7. Cigarette Case Microphone and Camera
As cigarette cases were extremely popular at this time, it seemed inconspicuous when someone pulled one out during an important meeting. Little did they know, there was a microphone inside.
8. Charlie the Robot Fish
This robot fish was developed to collect underwater signals from Russian crafts.
9. Coat Button Cameras
It’s amazing that during the Cold War, we could fit tiny cameras inside coat buttons. These cameras could capture important information during the war.
10. Pigeon Camera
It would be cool if this was a robotic pigeon with a camera on it, but pigeon cameras were just cameras strapped onto the poor birds. In other words, we use pigeons as spies.
11. The Spy Ring
Just in case the enemy found your pipe radio, and your button camera, this spy ring contained a camera and a microphone to capture evidence against the opposing side.
12. Poison Dart Umbrella
For non-lethal missions, this device was used to knock out the enemy. Once they were unconscious, they could be transported to a private area and interrogated.
13. False Bottom Briefcase
This briefcase had a hidden compartment for secret documents and gadgets. You’d think during war times this would be caught easily, but this gadget worked surprisingly well.
14. The Lighter-Camera
There’s nothing more inconspicuous than lighting up a cigarette during a stressful meeting, little do the other people in the room know they’re being recorded.
15. Mirror glasses
Though not as extravagant as some of the other items on this list, these glasses were amazing for looking at someone without them knowing you’re looking at them.
16. Camera Watch
At this point, you might as well throw a tiny camera in every article of clothing you have. We assume every agent had roughly 10 cameras on them.
17. Pen Camera
Last but certainly not least, is the pen camera. Though probably the most obvious of all the cameras, this little gadget was responsible for transmitting tons of information.
